The Plateau Initiative for the Development and Advancement of the Natives (PIDAN), has condemned the growing practice of blocking public highways during outbreaks of violence in Plateau State, describing the trend as counterproductive and dangerous.
In a press statement issued on February 26, 2026,the president Amb Nanpon Danjuma Sheni expressed deep concern over what he termed an alarming pattern in which major roads, including federal highways, are obstructed by protesters in response to attacks in some communities across the state.
While unequivocally condemning the continued killings and attacks on innocent citizens, the PIDAN President stressed that highway blockades are not a legitimate solution to the security challenges facing the state.
He noted that such actions disrupt lawful movement and economic activities and, in some instances, have resulted in the harassment, assault, and even killing of innocent travelers who have no connection to the crises.
“These actions are deeply regrettable and unacceptable,” he stated, warning that mob actions and road blockades do not bring justice to victims nor address the root causes of insecurity.
Sheni further cautioned that such incidents portray Plateau and its peace loving people negatively at both national and international levels, thereby undermining ongoing efforts at peacebuilding, reconciliation, and development.
He called on citizens, particularly youths, to remain law abiding and resist the temptation to take the law into their own hands, regardless of provocation. According to him, sustainable peace can only be achieved through the rule of law and collective responsibility.
The PIDAN President also urged community leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to intensify peace advocacy and discourage any form of retaliatory violence or collective punishment against innocent persons.In addition, Sheni called on security agencies to step up their efforts in addressing the persistent attacks on communities in the state.
He emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, noting that citizens deserve to live without fear in their ancestral homes.
He stressed the urgent need for the deployment and effective use of actionable, real time intelligence to prevent attacks before they occur, apprehend perpetrators swiftly, and dismantle networks responsible for violence.
Sheni maintained that lasting peace in Plateau would not be achieved through reprisals or mob justice, but through professionalism, proactive security measures, and a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.
He reaffirmed PIDAN’s commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to promote peace, justice, and development across the state.
